10
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments Your comments are important Yellow-headed blackbird. ©Donn Larsen The draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment (dCCP/EA) for Camas National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge, NWR) is available for public review and comment. Between now and February 10, 2014, interested citizens, agencies, and organizations can review and comment on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) dCCP/ EA, which includes an analysis of management alternatives for Camas NWR. We evaluated three draft alternatives and selected Alternative 2 as our Preferred Alternative. The dCCP/EA also describes management actions that are common to all alternatives, and actions that were considered but dismissed from further consideration. Your thoughts and comments on the alternatives are important, and we encourage you to share them with us. See options for sending your comments on page 10. The planning team will address substantive comments in the final CCP. When it is completed, the final CCP will guide Refuge management for 15 years, with actions implemented as funding becomes available. The dCCP/EA was developed to provide reasonable, scientifically grounded guidance for improving the deep marsh, shallow marsh, riparian, instream, sagebrush- steppe, and shelterbelt habitats of Camas NWR for the long-term conservation of migratory birds and native plants and animals. Actions for protecting and sustaining the Refuge’s natural resources, habitats, and migratory bird populations are identified in the dCCP/EA. Priority public use programs—wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, interpretation, and hunting—are also evaluated in the dCCP/EA. Public Open House Meetings Public open house meetings will be held January 22 and 23, 2014, in Idaho Falls and Hamer, ID. See page 8 for details. Your participation is critical to the success of this effort - we want to hear from you!

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

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Page 1: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

CamasNational Wildlife RefugePlanning Update 4, January 2014

The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments Your comments are important

Yellow-headed blackbird. ©Donn Larsen

The draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment (dCCP/EA) for Camas National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge, NWR) is available for public review and comment. Between now and February 10, 2014, interested citizens, agencies, and organizations can review and comment on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) dCCP/EA, which includes an analysis of management alternatives for Camas NWR.

We evaluated three draft alternatives and selected Alternative 2 as our Preferred

Alternative. The dCCP/EA also describes management actions that are common to all alternatives, and actions that were considered but dismissed from further consideration.

Your thoughts and comments on the alternatives are important, and we encourage you to share them with us. See options for sending your comments on page 10. The planning team will address substantive comments in the final CCP. When it is completed, the final CCP will guide Refuge management for 15 years, with actions implemented as funding becomes available.

The dCCP/EA was developed to provide reasonable, scientifically grounded guidance for improving the deep marsh, shallow marsh, riparian, instream, sagebrush-steppe, and shelterbelt habitats of Camas NWR for the long-term conservation of migratory birds and native plants and animals. Actions for protecting and sustaining the Refuge’s natural resources, habitats, and migratory bird populations are identified in the dCCP/EA. Priority public use programs—wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, interpretation, and hunting—are also evaluated in the dCCP/EA.

Public Open House MeetingsPublic open house meetings will be held January 22 and 23, 2014, in Idaho Falls and Hamer, ID. See page 8 for details. Your participation is critical to the success of this effort - we want to hear from you!

Page 2: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

32

Q&As about the Draft CCP

How would management of the Refuge change under the Preferred Alternative?

In the Preferred Alternative there would be fewer acres of deep wetlands in any given year, but more acres of shallow, seasonal wetlands. We would rotate which basins would receive water from year to year. This would create a greater variety and productivity of wetland habitats than is currently present. We would conduct assessments of wetland and riparian habitat, and we would pilot projects to evaluate the effects of changes in water management upon wildlife habitat and populations.

Using the results of these assessments, we would develop a Wetland and Riparian Restoration Plan (WRRP) and associated National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document by 2017. The goals of the WRRP include re-establishing dynamic wetlands and sustainable riparian habitat on the Refuge by 2027.

Would public use on the Refuge change under the Preferred Alternative?

All current public uses on the Refuge (wildlife observation and photography, waterfowl and upland game bird hunting, environmental education and interpretation, hiking, dog walking, bicycling, jogging, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing) would continue. The Auto Tour Route would be maintained in its current location; however, it would be designated as a one-way loop. In addition, we propose to issue a limited number of permits (up to 20 annually) for elk hunting on a portion of the Refuge (4,112 acres) during the

Idaho State season. The elk hunt would be in the southern portion of the Refuge, outside the area where most public use occurs (see Map 2, page 6).

There would be some changes to regulations to protect sensitive wildlife and habitat resources. For example, under the Preferred Alternative, free-roam hiking would no longer be allowed. However, there would still be ample public use opportunities year-round on 27 miles of service roads, the 6.3-mile Auto Tour Route, and a 1.3-mile birding trail. Dogs would be required to be on a short leash or have a functional e-collar.

Photographers would be allowed to place portable blinds within 100 feet of all roads that are open to public use, by reservation.

Alternative Number

Alternative 1 (No-Action Alternative)

Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative)

Alternative 3

Habitat Management Emphasis

Provide high quality, deep marsh habitat for breeding

waterfowl and waterbirds, and reliable levels of annual waterfowl production

Increase variability of wetland habitats and partially restore Camas Creek function while

reducing dependence on pumped groundwater

As in Alternative 2, except: Equal emphasis on upland and

wetland/riparian habitat management

Native Wetland and Riparian Habitat Management Water Management

Maintain deep wetlands by diverting most of Camas Creek surface waters (58.1 cfs) through 1 point of diversion, with supplemental pumping from 7 wells

• From 2014 to 2017 conduct assessments of wetland and riparian habitats, and begin pilot projects to evaluate effects of changes in water management to habitat and wildlife

• By 2017, develop WRRP and associated NEPA document to re-establish dynamic wetlands and sustainable riparian habitat by 2027

Wetland Habitats

Over the lifetime of the plan, manage the following acres of habitats annually: • 780 acres hemi-marsh (deep

marsh) in 6 wetland basins • 1,213 acres shallow marsh • 40–60 acres moist soil

wetlands in 2 basins • Maintain 1,958 acres of

existing wet meadow habitat and enhance 60–70 acres

Over the next 4 years (2014–2017), until the WRRP is complete, manage the following acres of habitats annually: • 250–300 acres of hemi-marsh in 3–4 wetland basins;

draw down 2–3 basins annually • 150–200 acres of moist soil wetlands in 2 basins

For the lifetime of the plan, manage the following acres of habitats annually: • 1,743–1,803 acres of shallow marsh • Maintain 1,958 acres and enhance 80–100 acres of wet

meadow habitat

Camas Creek and Riparian (Woodland) Habitat

Over the life of the plan: • Maintain 4 miles in-stream

habitat (Camas Creek) • Maintain 20–40 acres of

willow riparian habitat

Over the next 4 years (2014–2017): • Maintain 8 miles in-stream habitat (Camas Creek) • Maintain and enhance 100–150 acres of willow riparian habitat

associated with Camas Creek By 2017, implement pilot project to lower banks of Camas Creek in strategic locations

Native Upland Habitat Management Shrub Steppe (Sagebrush)

Maintain 2,623 acres; rehabilitate and restore 113

acres of non-native habitat to sage-steppe

As in Alt 1, but also: Establish test plots to evaluate

restoration strategies. Lower priority than

wetland/riparian management

Rehabilitate and restore 425 acres of non-native habitat to

sage-steppe. Equal priority with

wetland/riparian management

Naturalized Habitat Management Shelterbelt (Non-Native and Native Trees/Shrubs)

Maintain 34 acres of shelterbelt in current location to support migratory landbirds

Expand to 50 acres along the edges of existing habitat

Maintain with groundwater flood irrigation using Refuge base funding

Supplement flood irrigation with solar-powered micro-irrigation system; develop supplemental funding

As in Alt 1

Agricultural Habitat Management Crops and Acres

160 acres/2 fields farmed using Cooperative Land Management Agreements (CLMAs) with local farmers

(20 acres small grain, 140 acres alfalfa)

80 acres/1 field using CLMAs (20 acres small grain,

60 acres alfalfa) Farming Practices Well #7 field: Irrigated,

Refuge-owned equipment Well #9 field: Irrigated, privately owned equipment

Well #7 Field: As in Alt 1 Well #9 field: Dryland farm up to 80 acres if cooperative farmer/equipment lost

Well #7 field: As in Alt 1 Well #9 field: No farming; restore to shrub-steppe

Haying Hay 150 acres and irrigate 330 acres annually

Hay 150 acres and irrigate 150 acres annually

Hay 150 acres annually; no irrigation

Alternatives Comparison Table

A Special Use Permit would be needed to place blinds in other areas. Opportunities for environmental education would increase due to increased staffing and facilities.

What happens next?

You may provide comments by U.S. mail, phone, or by email, (see page 10 for instructions). Comments are due by February 10, 2014. We will compile all public comments on the draft CCP and respond to all substantive comments. Based on comments, we may correct factual information or modify the alternatives. We will select an alternative for implementation and publish the final CCP.

Refuge tour. USFWS

Page 3: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

32

Q&As about the Draft CCP

How would management of the Refuge change under the Preferred Alternative?

In the Preferred Alternative there would be fewer acres of deep wetlands in any given year, but more acres of shallow, seasonal wetlands. We would rotate which basins would receive water from year to year. This would create a greater variety and productivity of wetland habitats than is currently present. We would conduct assessments of wetland and riparian habitat, and we would pilot projects to evaluate the effects of changes in water management upon wildlife habitat and populations.

Using the results of these assessments, we would develop a Wetland and Riparian Restoration Plan (WRRP) and associated National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document by 2017. The goals of the WRRP include re-establishing dynamic wetlands and sustainable riparian habitat on the Refuge by 2027.

Would public use on the Refuge change under the Preferred Alternative?

All current public uses on the Refuge (wildlife observation and photography, waterfowl and upland game bird hunting, environmental education and interpretation, hiking, dog walking, bicycling, jogging, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing) would continue. The Auto Tour Route would be maintained in its current location; however, it would be designated as a one-way loop. In addition, we propose to issue a limited number of permits (up to 20 annually) for elk hunting on a portion of the Refuge (4,112 acres) during the

Idaho State season. The elk hunt would be in the southern portion of the Refuge, outside the area where most public use occurs (see Map 2, page 6).

There would be some changes to regulations to protect sensitive wildlife and habitat resources. For example, under the Preferred Alternative, free-roam hiking would no longer be allowed. However, there would still be ample public use opportunities year-round on 27 miles of service roads, the 6.3-mile Auto Tour Route, and a 1.3-mile birding trail. Dogs would be required to be on a short leash or have a functional e-collar.

Photographers would be allowed to place portable blinds within 100 feet of all roads that are open to public use, by reservation.

Alternative Number

Alternative 1 (No-Action Alternative)

Alternative 2 (Preferred Alternative)

Alternative 3

Habitat Management Emphasis

Provide high quality, deep marsh habitat for breeding

waterfowl and waterbirds, and reliable levels of annual waterfowl production

Increase variability of wetland habitats and partially restore Camas Creek function while

reducing dependence on pumped groundwater

As in Alternative 2, except: Equal emphasis on upland and

wetland/riparian habitat management

Native Wetland and Riparian Habitat Management Water Management

Maintain deep wetlands by diverting most of Camas Creek surface waters (58.1 cfs) through 1 point of diversion, with supplemental pumping from 7 wells

• From 2014 to 2017 conduct assessments of wetland and riparian habitats, and begin pilot projects to evaluate effects of changes in water management to habitat and wildlife

• By 2017, develop WRRP and associated NEPA document to re-establish dynamic wetlands and sustainable riparian habitat by 2027

Wetland Habitats

Over the lifetime of the plan, manage the following acres of habitats annually: • 780 acres hemi-marsh (deep

marsh) in 6 wetland basins • 1,213 acres shallow marsh • 40–60 acres moist soil

wetlands in 2 basins • Maintain 1,958 acres of

existing wet meadow habitat and enhance 60–70 acres

Over the next 4 years (2014–2017), until the WRRP is complete, manage the following acres of habitats annually: • 250–300 acres of hemi-marsh in 3–4 wetland basins;

draw down 2–3 basins annually • 150–200 acres of moist soil wetlands in 2 basins

For the lifetime of the plan, manage the following acres of habitats annually: • 1,743–1,803 acres of shallow marsh • Maintain 1,958 acres and enhance 80–100 acres of wet

meadow habitat

Camas Creek and Riparian (Woodland) Habitat

Over the life of the plan: • Maintain 4 miles in-stream

habitat (Camas Creek) • Maintain 20–40 acres of

willow riparian habitat

Over the next 4 years (2014–2017): • Maintain 8 miles in-stream habitat (Camas Creek) • Maintain and enhance 100–150 acres of willow riparian habitat

associated with Camas Creek By 2017, implement pilot project to lower banks of Camas Creek in strategic locations

Native Upland Habitat Management Shrub Steppe (Sagebrush)

Maintain 2,623 acres; rehabilitate and restore 113

acres of non-native habitat to sage-steppe

As in Alt 1, but also: Establish test plots to evaluate

restoration strategies. Lower priority than

wetland/riparian management

Rehabilitate and restore 425 acres of non-native habitat to

sage-steppe. Equal priority with

wetland/riparian management

Naturalized Habitat Management Shelterbelt (Non-Native and Native Trees/Shrubs)

Maintain 34 acres of shelterbelt in current location to support migratory landbirds

Expand to 50 acres along the edges of existing habitat

Maintain with groundwater flood irrigation using Refuge base funding

Supplement flood irrigation with solar-powered micro-irrigation system; develop supplemental funding

As in Alt 1

Agricultural Habitat Management Crops and Acres

160 acres/2 fields farmed using Cooperative Land Management Agreements (CLMAs) with local farmers

(20 acres small grain, 140 acres alfalfa)

80 acres/1 field using CLMAs (20 acres small grain,

60 acres alfalfa) Farming Practices Well #7 field: Irrigated,

Refuge-owned equipment Well #9 field: Irrigated, privately owned equipment

Well #7 Field: As in Alt 1 Well #9 field: Dryland farm up to 80 acres if cooperative farmer/equipment lost

Well #7 field: As in Alt 1 Well #9 field: No farming; restore to shrub-steppe

Haying Hay 150 acres and irrigate 330 acres annually

Hay 150 acres and irrigate 150 acres annually

Hay 150 acres annually; no irrigation

Alternatives Comparison Table

A Special Use Permit would be needed to place blinds in other areas. Opportunities for environmental education would increase due to increased staffing and facilities.

What happens next?

You may provide comments by U.S. mail, phone, or by email, (see page 10 for instructions). Comments are due by February 10, 2014. We will compile all public comments on the draft CCP and respond to all substantive comments. Based on comments, we may correct factual information or modify the alternatives. We will select an alternative for implementation and publish the final CCP.

Refuge tour. USFWS

Page 4: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

54Public Use, Alternative 1, Current Management

I-

I-I-

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I-I-

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I-

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I-

!i

!i!i

!i

!i

!i

LegendService Roads (Closed to vehicle traffic)

Auto Tour Route

Roads open to vehicles year-round

Hunting and Wildlife Observation Road

Birding Trail

Gate and Access

Refuge Boundary

!@ Headquarters and Information

Waterfowl and Upland Bird Hunting Areas

!] Info Kiosk

I- Pull-out / Information Sign

!i Parking

0 0.95 1.90.475Miles

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Headquarters/Birding Trail

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!@

!@

Map 6.

Two

Way

Visitor Services Program Facilities, Staffing, and Volunteers Facilities Parking area at HQ with self-service orientation facilities, parking lot, and comfort station

Small visitor contact area in Refuge office

Construct new visitor contact station and environmental education multipurpose room staffed by Friends of Camas NWR, volunteers, and additional staff.

Staffing No Refuge or Complex staff dedicated to visitor services, managing volunteers, or assisting Friends Group

• 1 full-time Park Ranger/Visitor Services Manager at Camas NWR to manage visitor services and volunteer programs, coordinate with Friends of Camas NWR

• 1 full-time volunteer coordinator position at Southeast Idaho NWR Complex

Public Access Vehicular Access 6.3-mile, two-way, auto tour

route open year round, weather permitting

As in Alt 1, except change auto tour route to one-way

6.5 miles of additional hunter access roads open to vehicles during hunting season

As in Alt 1, but also: • 7.5-mile Sandhole Lake loop

road open July 1–Nov 1 (total 14 miles of additional roads open seasonally)

Pedestrian/Bicycle Access

6.3-mile auto tour route and 27 miles of dirt/gravel service roads open year-round to walking, jogging, bicycling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog walking

27 miles of service roads un-maintained, un-groomed in winter 17 miles un-maintained 10 miles groomed in winter

Off-road hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing permitted July 15–February 28 on 10,806 acres (entire Refuge)

No off-road hiking permitted except by hunters in possession of valid State licenses and tags during the hunting season

Off-road hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing permitted year-round in N. hunt unit (980 acres), Jan 1–July 31 in S. hunt unit (1,530 acres)

0.5-mile birding trail open to walking only

1.3-mile birding trail open to walking only

Group size not addressed Organized events for jogging, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing for groups larger than 10 must apply for

Special Use Permit

Dog Walking Allowed in all areas open to public use; dogs must be on leash or under close control

Allowed on roads only; dogs must be on maximum 6-foot leash or functional e-collar. Dogs not allowed on 1.3-mile birding trail

Wildlife Observation and Photography Wildlife Viewing Facilities

6.3-mile auto tour route with pullouts and interpretive panels; one wildlife observation platform

0.5-mile birding trail 1.3-mile birding trail Wildlife Tours Occasional tours on request 8 wildlife viewing tours annually 12 wildlife viewing tours annually

Photography blinds

Portable blinds allowed on road shoulders year-round; off roads July 15–Feb 28

Portable blinds allowed within 100 feet of roads; maximum of 5 blinds allowed at same time

As in Alternative 2, but also: 3 semi-permanent photo blinds available by reservation

Environmental Education and Interpretation EE Participation 400–450 annually (250

students, 150–200 from tours) 1,000–1,100 (800 students within 10 years; 200–300 from tours)

2,000–2,400 (2,000 students within 10 years; 400 from tours)

Wildlife Based Educational Tours

6–10 tours annually, led by Refuge staff

10–15 tours annually, led by Refuge staff, volunteers

20 tours annually, led by Refuge staff, volunteers

Hunting Hunt Type/Acres Waterfowl and upland game bird hunting allowed on 2,510 acres

No big game hunting Provide a limited elk hunt on 4,112 acres of the Refuge in line with Idaho seasons for GMU 63 (all elk August 1–31; antlerless

elk only September 1–December 31). Issue up to 20 elk hunting access permits annually with priority

to youth and mobility-impaired hunters

Alternatives Comparison Table........continued Map 1

Page 5: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

54Public Use, Alternative 1, Current Management

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!i!i

!i

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LegendService Roads (Closed to vehicle traffic)

Auto Tour Route

Roads open to vehicles year-round

Hunting and Wildlife Observation Road

Birding Trail

Gate and Access

Refuge Boundary

!@ Headquarters and Information

Waterfowl and Upland Bird Hunting Areas

!] Info Kiosk

I- Pull-out / Information Sign

!i Parking

0 0.95 1.90.475Miles

I-

I-

I-

I-

I-

I-

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Headquarters/Birding Trail

§̈¦I-15

!@

!@

Map 6.

Two

Way

Visitor Services Program Facilities, Staffing, and Volunteers Facilities Parking area at HQ with self-service orientation facilities, parking lot, and comfort station

Small visitor contact area in Refuge office

Construct new visitor contact station and environmental education multipurpose room staffed by Friends of Camas NWR, volunteers, and additional staff.

Staffing No Refuge or Complex staff dedicated to visitor services, managing volunteers, or assisting Friends Group

• 1 full-time Park Ranger/Visitor Services Manager at Camas NWR to manage visitor services and volunteer programs, coordinate with Friends of Camas NWR

• 1 full-time volunteer coordinator position at Southeast Idaho NWR Complex

Public Access Vehicular Access 6.3-mile, two-way, auto tour

route open year round, weather permitting

As in Alt 1, except change auto tour route to one-way

6.5 miles of additional hunter access roads open to vehicles during hunting season

As in Alt 1, but also: • 7.5-mile Sandhole Lake loop

road open July 1–Nov 1 (total 14 miles of additional roads open seasonally)

Pedestrian/Bicycle Access

6.3-mile auto tour route and 27 miles of dirt/gravel service roads open year-round to walking, jogging, bicycling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog walking

27 miles of service roads un-maintained, un-groomed in winter 17 miles un-maintained 10 miles groomed in winter

Off-road hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing permitted July 15–February 28 on 10,806 acres (entire Refuge)

No off-road hiking permitted except by hunters in possession of valid State licenses and tags during the hunting season

Off-road hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing permitted year-round in N. hunt unit (980 acres), Jan 1–July 31 in S. hunt unit (1,530 acres)

0.5-mile birding trail open to walking only

1.3-mile birding trail open to walking only

Group size not addressed Organized events for jogging, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing for groups larger than 10 must apply for

Special Use Permit

Dog Walking Allowed in all areas open to public use; dogs must be on leash or under close control

Allowed on roads only; dogs must be on maximum 6-foot leash or functional e-collar. Dogs not allowed on 1.3-mile birding trail

Wildlife Observation and Photography Wildlife Viewing Facilities

6.3-mile auto tour route with pullouts and interpretive panels; one wildlife observation platform

0.5-mile birding trail 1.3-mile birding trail Wildlife Tours Occasional tours on request 8 wildlife viewing tours annually 12 wildlife viewing tours annually

Photography blinds

Portable blinds allowed on road shoulders year-round; off roads July 15–Feb 28

Portable blinds allowed within 100 feet of roads; maximum of 5 blinds allowed at same time

As in Alternative 2, but also: 3 semi-permanent photo blinds available by reservation

Environmental Education and Interpretation EE Participation 400–450 annually (250

students, 150–200 from tours) 1,000–1,100 (800 students within 10 years; 200–300 from tours)

2,000–2,400 (2,000 students within 10 years; 400 from tours)

Wildlife Based Educational Tours

6–10 tours annually, led by Refuge staff

10–15 tours annually, led by Refuge staff, volunteers

20 tours annually, led by Refuge staff, volunteers

Hunting Hunt Type/Acres Waterfowl and upland game bird hunting allowed on 2,510 acres

No big game hunting Provide a limited elk hunt on 4,112 acres of the Refuge in line with Idaho seasons for GMU 63 (all elk August 1–31; antlerless

elk only September 1–December 31). Issue up to 20 elk hunting access permits annually with priority

to youth and mobility-impaired hunters

Alternatives Comparison Table........continued Map 1

Page 6: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

76Public Use, Alternative 3

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!i

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LegendService Roads (Closed to vehicle traffic)

Auto Tour Route

Roads open to vehicles year-round

Hunting and Wildlife Observation Road

Sandhole Lake Loop

Existing Birding Trail (in inset map)

Proposed Birding Trail

Gate and Access

Refuge Boundary

!@ Headquarters and Information

Elk Hunt Area

Waterfowl and Upland Bird Hunting Areas

!] Info Kiosk

I- Pull-out / Information Sign

!i Parking

0 1 20.5Miles

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Map 8.Public Use, Alternative 2, Preferred Alternative

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!i

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LegendService Roads (Closed to vehicle traffic)

Auto Tour Route

Roads open to vehicles year-round

Hunting and Wildlife Observation Road

Existing Birding Trail (in inset map)

Proposed Birding Trail

Gate and Access

Refuge Boundary

!@ Headquarters and Information

Elk Hunt Area

Waterfowl and Upland Bird Hunting Areas

!] Info Kiosk

I- Pull-out / Information Sign

!i Parking

0 1 20.5Miles

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Map 7.Map 2 Map 3

Page 7: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

76Public Use, Alternative 3

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!i

!i!i

!i

!i

!i

LegendService Roads (Closed to vehicle traffic)

Auto Tour Route

Roads open to vehicles year-round

Hunting and Wildlife Observation Road

Sandhole Lake Loop

Existing Birding Trail (in inset map)

Proposed Birding Trail

Gate and Access

Refuge Boundary

!@ Headquarters and Information

Elk Hunt Area

Waterfowl and Upland Bird Hunting Areas

!] Info Kiosk

I- Pull-out / Information Sign

!i Parking

0 1 20.5Miles

I-

I-

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I-

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Map 8.Public Use, Alternative 2, Preferred Alternative

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I-I-

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I-

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I-

!i

!i!i

!i

!i

!i

LegendService Roads (Closed to vehicle traffic)

Auto Tour Route

Roads open to vehicles year-round

Hunting and Wildlife Observation Road

Existing Birding Trail (in inset map)

Proposed Birding Trail

Gate and Access

Refuge Boundary

!@ Headquarters and Information

Elk Hunt Area

Waterfowl and Upland Bird Hunting Areas

!] Info Kiosk

I- Pull-out / Information Sign

!i Parking

0 1 20.5Miles

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I-

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§̈¦I-15

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Map 7.Map 2 Map 3

Page 8: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

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You are Invited to our Public Open House MeetingsThe meetings are opportunities for you to ask questions and provide comments on the draft CCP.

Idaho FallsDate: January 22, 2014Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.Location: Idaho Falls Public Library457 W. BroadwayIdaho Falls, ID 83402

HamerDate: January 23, 2014Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.Location: Hamer Community Center2087 Old Butte HighwayHamer, ID 83425

Planning Schedule

Planning Step Target DatePlanning Update 1 (issued) ...............................................................................................August 2010Public Meetings (completed) ...........................................................................................August, 2010Scoping Public Comment Period .....................................................September 17-October 17, 2010Planning Update 2 (issued) .............................................................................................January 2011Planning Update 3 (issued) ....................................................................................................May 2012Planning Update 4 (issued) .............................................................................................January 2014 Draft CCP/EA Public Comment Period .............................................January 9-February 10, 2014Final CCP/EA ......................................................................................................................Spring 2014Schedule dates are tentative and subject to change as the planning process progresses.

Copies of the dCCP/EA are available as follows:

Porcupine baby. ©Donn Larsen; Student banding a bird. ©Donn Larsen; Ibis eggs. Pam Johnson/USFWS; Great horned owlet. ©Donn Larsen

Your Refuge—Leaner, Greener, and Reaching OutTo promote the availability of the dCCP/EA to a wider audience, and to reduce our use of natural resources, we will post the dCCP/EA on two websites and provide the listed libraries with a printed and CD copy. CDs and limited printed copies are available to the public upon request; please contact us to obtain a copy at our contact information above.

Copies of the dCCP/EA on CD may be obtained by contacting:Brian WehausenCamas National Wildlife Refuge 2150 East 2350 NorthHamer, ID 83425Phone (208) 662-5423

Review or download the dCCP/EA from the following Internet sites:www.fws.gov/camashttp://www.fws.gov/pacific/planning/

A printed copy of the dCCP/EA is available at each of the following libraries:Hamer Public Library2450 E. 2100 NorthHamer, ID 83425Phone: (208) 662-5275

Idaho Falls Public Library 457 W. BroadwayIdaho Falls, ID 83402Phone: (208) 612-8460

Marshall Public Library113 S. GarfieldPocatello, ID 83204Phone: (208) 232-1263

Sunrise on Big Pond with the Teton Range in the background. ©Donn Larsen

Page 9: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

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You are Invited to our Public Open House MeetingsThe meetings are opportunities for you to ask questions and provide comments on the draft CCP.

Idaho FallsDate: January 22, 2014Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.Location: Idaho Falls Public Library457 W. BroadwayIdaho Falls, ID 83402

HamerDate: January 23, 2014Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.Location: Hamer Community Center2087 Old Butte HighwayHamer, ID 83425

Planning Schedule

Planning Step Target DatePlanning Update 1 (issued) ...............................................................................................August 2010Public Meetings (completed) ...........................................................................................August, 2010Scoping Public Comment Period .....................................................September 17-October 17, 2010Planning Update 2 (issued) .............................................................................................January 2011Planning Update 3 (issued) ....................................................................................................May 2012Planning Update 4 (issued) .............................................................................................January 2014 Draft CCP/EA Public Comment Period .............................................January 9-February 10, 2014Final CCP/EA ......................................................................................................................Spring 2014Schedule dates are tentative and subject to change as the planning process progresses.

Copies of the dCCP/EA are available as follows:

Porcupine baby. ©Donn Larsen; Student banding a bird. ©Donn Larsen; Ibis eggs. Pam Johnson/USFWS; Great horned owlet. ©Donn Larsen

Your Refuge—Leaner, Greener, and Reaching OutTo promote the availability of the dCCP/EA to a wider audience, and to reduce our use of natural resources, we will post the dCCP/EA on two websites and provide the listed libraries with a printed and CD copy. CDs and limited printed copies are available to the public upon request; please contact us to obtain a copy at our contact information above.

Copies of the dCCP/EA on CD may be obtained by contacting:Brian WehausenCamas National Wildlife Refuge 2150 East 2350 NorthHamer, ID 83425Phone (208) 662-5423

Review or download the dCCP/EA from the following Internet sites:www.fws.gov/camashttp://www.fws.gov/pacific/planning/

A printed copy of the dCCP/EA is available at each of the following libraries:Hamer Public Library2450 E. 2100 NorthHamer, ID 83425Phone: (208) 662-5275

Idaho Falls Public Library 457 W. BroadwayIdaho Falls, ID 83402Phone: (208) 612-8460

Marshall Public Library113 S. GarfieldPocatello, ID 83204Phone: (208) 232-1263

Sunrise on Big Pond with the Teton Range in the background. ©Donn Larsen

Page 10: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Camas National Wildlife Refuge · Camas National Wildlife Refuge Planning Update 4, January 2014 The Refuge’s Draft CCP/EA is Available for Public Comments

U.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceCamas National Wildlife Refuge2150 East 2350 NorthHamer, ID 83425

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In this issue:Your comments on the Camas National Wildlife Refuge draft CCP are requested. Tell us at one of our public open house meetings scheduled for January 22 in Idaho Falls and January 23 in Hamer.

Snow geese and ducks. USFWS

We want to hear from you!Your comments help shape the future of the Refuge. Please send your comments and requests to us by any of the following methods:U.S. mail: Brian WehausenCamas National Wildlife Refuge 2150 East 2350 NorthHamer, Idaho 83425

Phone: (208) 662-5423

Website: www.fws.gov/camas; select “Contact Us.”

E-mail: [email protected](Please include “Camas NWR dCCP/EA” in the subject line)

Comments are due by February 10, 2014.